How to Travel With Teens

Time flies. Soon your high-schoolers will be leaving the nest, and
you'll have to work harder to stay connected with their lives. Foster
strong bonds now by planning a trip they'll enjoy and remember.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Don't be a trip dictator or the vacation could turn into a disaster. Respect your teen's input and feelings. Involve him or her in the planning stages by downloading maps (Mapquest.com), researching attractions, and creating the game plan (see 418 Prepare an Itinerary).

2. Consider vacationing at a resort or on a cruise that has activities for different age levels, such as Club Med's Teen Clubs (clubmed.com), so your teen can hang out with peers and get a rest from siblings.

3. Allot spending money for each teen, and let them make decisions on which extras to buy. See 248 Teach Your Kids About Money.

Tips & Warnings

• Teens often need more sleep and more calories than adults, so plan accordingly.
• Give licensed teens practice driving and reading maps part of the way.
• Allow your teen his or her independence and privacy, but not at the risk of safety. New cities and situations may require new rules.

[AuntLaya]

on 3/8/2008 Have fun!!! You're on the home stretch with your teen so enjoy his or her company. Keep your sense of humor and wonder. Don't be afraid to get sidetracked if that's what's interesting for you both. Enjoy!

on 11/22/2005 Be sure to allot time for frequent food breaks. It's no fun to travel with a teen who's starving and ticked off because you wouldn't stop for a minute at the ice cream vendor.